Headlines

Williams hoping to extend loan at Oxford United

First published
in Headlines
Last updated
by David Pritchard, Chief Sports Reporter covering Oxford United. Follow us on twitter: @oxfordmailoufc. Call me on 01865 425458

RYAN Williams thinks he would be foolish to look elsewhere as Oxford United close in on a deal with Fulham to extend the winger’s loan until the end of the season.

The 20-year-old has become a key player in recent weeks, filling the gap on the right flank left by Alfie Potter’s ankle injury.

Williams had not started a senior game when he signed in the summer, but has been in the U’s side for ten of the last 11 games. His four goals included the winner in Monday night’s 2-1 FA Cup win at Wrexham.

As it stands, the initial agreement from Fulham expires on January 1.

There is the possibility the Cottagers may want to loan him out to a club at a higher level, but the Australian-born livewire is keen to stay at United.

“For sure – as you can tell, I’m enjoying my football here,” he said.

“I’ve had to wait for my chance and I’ve taken it and proved I should be playing every week.

“I’m having fun, we’re getting results and scoring goals, I could not really be happier.

“I think it would be quite stupid for me to go elsewhere at this point in time.”

United are in negotiations with the Premier League club about keeping the Australian Under 20 international for the rest of the campaign.

Manager Chris Wilder is optimistic about an agreement. He said: “I think we are quite a way down the road in terms of extending it until the end of the season, which is good news.”

It would be a popular move among the U’s squad. James Constable, who was also on target at Wrexham, is enjoying playing alongside Williams and explained what he brought to the side.

The striker said: “ We are oozing confidence, especially with people like Ryan, it just gives you an instant positive feeling.

“He gets the ball and runs at people. It causes them problems. He’s a young lad, but is showing ability years above his age.”

The ball is clearly in Filham's court. They may want him to get experience at a higher level but commonsense suggests he would be better off playing and developing his game in a successful team where he is obviously happy.

The ball is clearly in Filham's court. They may want him to get experience at a higher level but commonsense suggests he would be better off playing and developing his game in a successful team where he is obviously happy.Headington Jim